The bill amends the Oklahoma Employees Insurance and Benefits Act by modifying the opt-out provision for state health insurance plans. Specifically, it removes the requirement for participants to be covered by a separate group health insurance plan in order to opt out of the state's basic health and dental plans. Instead, employees can opt out if they are covered by any separate health insurance plan, allowing them to retain life and disability benefits. Participants must still provide proof of their separate health insurance coverage and sign an affidavit confirming their current coverage status.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that employees who opt out will receive a payment of $150 in lieu of the flexible benefit amount they would typically be eligible for. Any savings generated for the state from employees opting out of health insurance coverage will be retained by the state. The effective date for this amendment is set for November 1, 2025.